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Researchers have been working on quantum systems for more than a decade, in the hopes of developing super-tiny, super-powerful computers. And while there is still plenty of excitement surrounding quantum computing, significant roadblocks are causing some to question whether quantum computing will ever make it out of the lab.

Not sure what quantum computing is? Here are some slides that offer a brief explanation of quantum computing. Also, here are some images showing a quantum computer built by the Canadian company D-Wave Systems. (
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A schematic illustration of a single qubit, showing the superposition of states (magnetic fields pointing up and down) A superposition can be thought of as the bit of information being "undecided" as to whether it is a 0 or a 1.

The processor and its packaging require specialized cooling equipment known as a dilution refrigerator in order to reach the cold temperatures required to operate. The processor also needs carefully engineered shielding to prevent unwanted magnetic signals from disrupting the quantum computation.

The specialized equipment required for quantum computing means that these systems will be operated as cloud computing resources, housed in special data centers. Here is shown part of the control system that accompanies the computer itself. This part monitors the coolant gases flowing through the computer's refrigeration equipment.